Confirmation is closely associated with Baptism but differs from it, Confirmation is an extension of Baptism and is associated with the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. When the Spirit came on the Apostles they were filled with power and conviction. They became men transformed, filled with God’s spirit.

The work of the Holy Spirit in them made them aware of the love of Jesus and so a new relationship with Jesus was born. The Spirit launched them into the world to be witnesses to the Resurrection and to preach the gospel of salvation to all people.

The power that was given to the Apostles is given to us also. The gifts of the Holy Spirit were given to at Baptism and later at Confirmation. What we need is Faith to accept the gifts and the energy to put our faith to work in situations where we find ourselves.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit will give us courage to open doors and to go out to people who may not have heard of the Holy Spirit. We need to be transformed at Pentecost, our fear must be turned to joy. We know that the Apostles were fearful and were staying together in their fear before the coming of the Holy Spirit but then they received the gifts and were no longer afraid but went out to preach the good news with joy. They were liberated from their fears and were prepared to suffer any hardship for the sake of the Gospel.

When we are liberated from our fears we will not be afraid or ashamed to proclaim the gospel by word and example.

– Dom Ambrose Farrington, OCSO